‘Star Wars’ Latest Rumor: Will ‘Episode 7′ be Free From the Children of Skywalkers?

So much of what's happening with 'Star Wars: Episode 7' should be taken with a grain of salt, but early word was that the film would focus on the children of Luke Skywalker and/or Han Solo and Leia (though expanded universe fiction suggests otherwise, it is unknown if she took his last name, or even if they got married). But the latest casting call suggests that J.J. Abrams and company may be going in a new direction.

Coming originally from a casting call posted on Twitter, and then confirmed to be for 'Star Wars' leading roles by Bleeding Cool, the new memo shows they're looking for a young woman over the age of 16, and a young man between the ages of 19-23. Here's that casting call:

Though they seem in the 'Star Wars' mold of character who can take care of themselves, only the latter sounds vaguely Han Solo-ish. If this is the direction they're going, it sounds good -- though it's likely that one or both could have the force. One of the reasons why the first film worked so well is that Luke worked as an avatar for audiences, the dreamer who actually turned out to be special, and destined for greatness, not because of his lineage. That got complicated by the sequels and prequels, but it's one of the big reasons why the first film resonated so strongly. It would also free any appearances of Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher or Harrison Ford from being (possibly doting) parents.

It's also smart that the performers are newcomers. The draw here is 'Star Wars' and using unknowns will make the roles theirs (for better or worse). 'Star Wars: Episode 7' is likely due out in 2015, unless it isn't.